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Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to examine the reasons of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 individuals.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, most of the tower blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to extensive renovations—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings failed to meet requirements for fire resistance.

At least 13 suspects have been detained on suspicion of alleged culpable homicide, comprising the directors of a building firm.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. Hence we must act seriously to ensure that all these loopholes are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The blaze—which spread quickly both upwards and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it ignited, and took more than 2,000 emergency responders to subdue.

The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the inquiry could last three to four weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Several residents have said they were not alerted by a emergency siren when the incident erupted. The city's fire department found that detection devices in every tower were operating inadequately.

The relevant regulatory body has halted for now construction activities on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, police reportedly detained a individual on charges related to subversion on the weekend. He was involved with a gathering calling for an autonomous investigation into the blaze. An digital signature drive amassed in excess of 10,000 endorsements in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.

A pair of additional persons, comprising a ex-local representative, were also detained by police, as reported by press accounts.

Global Response

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both condemned the reported arrests.

"This is the occasion for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the reasons of the devastating fire...instead of suppressing those who pose valid inquiries," Amnesty International said.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was completed in the early 1980s and had offered close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, per a population count.

Approximately 40 percent of its inhabitants are believed to be at least 65 years of age. Several have been occupants of the public housing complex since its construction.

The city's second-worst blaze on record took 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a detonation at street level at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when more than 600 attendees perished.